DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
SUPTS. MEMO NO. 275
November 7, 2008
TO: Division Superintendents
FROM: Patricia I. Wright
Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT: Celebration of School Psychologists' Week (November 10-14, 2008)
The Virginia Department of Education is pleased to join the National Association of School Psychologists in celebrating the contributions that school psychologists make to our collaborative work as professional educators. School psychologists work with general and special educators, parents, administrators and other professionals to create safe, healthy, and supportive learning environments for children. They work across the spectrum of ages and grades: preschool to post-high school.
In addition to possessing a working knowledge of childhood learning and developmental processes, school psychologists possess individual and group assessment skills that make them invaluable members of school problem-solving teams. A school psychologist's counseling, consultation and crisis intervention skills enhance a school's services in academic and social areas.
School psychologists are frontline mental health providers and possess a thorough knowledge of community agencies and resources. Their knowledge in this area enables them to be bridge-builders between schools and homes. A school psychologist's knowledge and skills in research areas are helpful in matters involving program planning and program evaluation.
Questions regarding psychological services at the state level can be directed to Wayne Barry, via e-mail firstname.lastname@example.org or telephone (804) 692-0396.